Harris to coach bowlers on South Africa tour

FORMER Test fast bowler Ryan Harris has been appointed Australia's bowling coach for the team's limited-overs tour of South Africa.

Harris, who retired from all forms of cricket last year, has ambitions of being the team's permanent bowling coach.

In South Africa Australia will play a one-dayer against Ireland and a five-match series against the hosts.

"It's great experience to learn from (assistant coach) David Saker and Darren Lehmann, I'm really just going to sit back and watch and learn,” said Harris, who took 113 wickets in 27 Tests and 44 in 21 ODIs.

"Eventually, I'd like to work my way to the top and become a bowling coach of the Australian team one day. Just like playing, you have to earn your stripes and learn the ropes.”

Lehmann welcomed the appointment of Harris, who is currently the assistant coach of Australia's national performance squad.

"I'm excited to have Ryan on board, a player and person of his calibre will no doubt offer strengths to our national side,” Lehmann said.

"It's a win-win having two experienced coaches in Ryan and David Saker being able to nurture our young group, particularly the up and coming bowlers joining, and we expect a positive response both on and off the field.”